KR102614333B1 - Display device - Google Patents

Abstract

The display device includes a flexible display module and provides a display surface on which an image is displayed. The flexible display module includes a display panel including a light emitting element and a sensor unit disposed on the display panel. In an in-folding mode in which the flexible display module is folded and a portion of the display surface faces another portion of the display surface, the sensor unit detects pressure applied to the flexible display module.

Description

Display device {DISPLAY DEVICE}

The present invention relates to a display device capable of detecting pressure applied from the outside.

Various display devices used in multimedia devices such as televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, navigation, game consoles, etc. are being developed. Input devices for display devices include a keyboard or mouse. Additionally, recently display devices are equipped with a sensor unit as an input device.

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a display device capable of detecting a user's touch and applied pressure.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, in a display device including a flexible display module and providing a display surface on which an image is displayed, the flexible display module includes a display panel including a light emitting element and a sensor disposed on the display panel. Contains units. In an in-folding mode in which the flexible display module is folded and a portion of the display surface faces another portion of the display surface, the sensor unit may detect a first pressure applied to the flexible display module.

The sensor unit includes a plurality of first touch sensors that transmit an electric field and a plurality of second touch sensors that receive the electric field, and in the in-folding mode, at least one of the plurality of first touch sensors is It may overlap with at least one of the plurality of second touch sensors.

In the in-folding mode, the first pressure may be detected by detecting a change in capacitance between the at least one of the plurality of first touch sensors and the at least one of the plurality of second touch sensors. there is.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sensor unit includes a plurality of first touch sensors and a plurality of second touch sensors capacitively coupled to the plurality of first touch sensors, and in the in-folding mode, At least one of the plurality of first touch sensors may overlap with at least another one of the plurality of first touch sensors.

In the in-folding mode, the first pressure is detected by detecting a change in capacitance between the at least one of the plurality of first touch sensors and the at least another one of the plurality of second touch sensors. You can.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the display device further includes a force sensor disposed under the display panel, and when the flexible display module is in an out-folding mode, the force sensor is connected to the flexible display module. The second pressure applied to can be sensed.

In the out-folding mode, the force sensor may detect the second pressure by detecting a change in capacitance.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the force sensor may include a strain gauge.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the light emitting device is divided into a front light emitting area and a bottom light emitting area, and the display panel may be a double sided light emitting display panel.

The light emitting device may include a first reflective layer, a first anode, a second anode, a light emitting layer, a cathode, and a second reflective layer. The first reflective layer is disposed on the base surface and may overlap the front emission area. The first anode may be disposed on the first reflective layer and overlap the front emission area. The second anode is disposed on the base surface and may overlap the bottom emitting area. The light emitting layer may be disposed on the first anode and the second anode, and may overlap the top light emitting area and the bottom light emitting area. The cathode may be disposed on the light emitting layer and overlap the front light emitting area and the bottom light emitting area. The second reflective layer may be disposed on the cathode and overlap the bottom emission area.

The display device may further include a first force sensor disposed between the second reflective layer and the sensor unit and detecting the first pressure.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the display device may further include a first force sensor and a reflective member. The first force sensor may be disposed on the second reflective layer to sense the first pressure. The reflective member may be disposed on the first force sensor and the first force sensor, and may overlap the front emitting area and the bottom emitting area.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, in a display device including a flexible display module and a force sensor and providing a display surface on which an image is displayed, the flexible display module includes a first display panel including a light emitting element and the first display panel. It may include a sensor unit disposed on the display panel. The force sensor is disposed under the first display panel and can detect pressure applied to the flexible display module when the flexible display module is in an out-folding mode.

In the out-folding mode, the force sensor can detect the pressure by detecting a change in capacitance.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, in a display device including a flexible display module and providing a display surface on which an image is displayed, the flexible display module includes a display panel including a light emitting element and a sensor disposed on the display panel. May contain units. In an in-folding mode in which the flexible display module is folded and a portion of the display surface faces another portion of the display surface, the sensor unit generates electrostatic coupling between the portion of the display surface and the other portion of the display surface. can be detected.

When the display device according to an embodiment of the present invention is in-folded, it can detect pressure applied through a capacitive sensor unit for detecting the user's touch.

The display device according to an embodiment of the present invention can detect pressure applied through a force sensor when out-folded.

The display device according to an embodiment of the present invention is a double-sided display device that can provide images in both directions and can detect applied pressure through a force sensor.

Figure 1A is a perspective view of a display device in normal mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the display device shown in FIG. 1A in an in-folding mode.
Figure 2A is a perspective view of a display device in normal mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the display device shown in FIG. 2A in an in-folding mode.
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a plan view of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 is an equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 and 7 are partial cross-sectional views of a display panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 is a plan view of a display module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of AA of FIG. 8.
Figures 10a and 10b are cross-sectional views taken along line II-II′ of Figure 9, respectively.
Figure 11a is a plan view showing touch sensors disposed in the touch sensing area.
FIG. 11B shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line II′ of FIG. 1B.
Figure 12a is a plan view showing touch sensors disposed in the touch sensing area.
FIG. 12B shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line II′ of FIG. 1B.
Figure 13A is a perspective view of a display device in normal mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the display device shown in FIG. 13A in an out-folding mode.
Figure 14a is a perspective view of a display device in normal mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the display device shown in FIG. 14A in an out-folding mode.
FIG. 15A shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 13A.
FIG. 15b shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line IV-IV′ of FIG. 13b.
FIG. 16A shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 13A.
FIG. 16b shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line IV-IV′ of FIG. 13b.
Figure 16c shows the strain gauges of Figure 16a.
Figure 17 shows a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18 illustrates a portion of a cross section of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 19 illustrates a portion of a cross section of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 20 illustrates a portion of a cross section of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 22, 23, 24, 25, and 26 respectively show cross-sections of the force sensor.
Figures 27, 28, and 29 show a sensor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this specification, when a component (or region, layer, portion, etc.) is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another component, it is directly placed/on the other component. This means that they can be connected/combined or a third component can be placed between them.

Like reference numerals refer to like elements. Additionally, in the drawings, the thickness, proportions, and dimensions of components are exaggerated for effective explanation of technical content. “And/or” includes all combinations of one or more that the associated configurations may define.

Terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, a first component may be named a second component, and similarly, the second component may also be named a first component without departing from the scope of the present invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Additionally, terms such as “below,” “on the lower side,” “above,” and “on the upper side” are used to describe the relationship between the components shown in the drawings. The above terms are relative concepts and are explained based on the direction indicated in the drawings.

Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to designate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but do not include one or more other features, numbers, or steps. , it should be understood that it does not exclude in advance the possibility of the existence or addition of operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the display device DD in normal mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the display device DD shown in FIG. 1A in an in-folding mode.

As shown in FIG. 1A, in the normal mode, the display surface IS on which the image IM is displayed is parallel to the plane defined by the first direction axis DR1 and the second direction axis DR2. The normal direction of the display surface IS, that is, the thickness direction of the display device DD, is indicated by the third direction axis DR3. The front (or upper) and back (or lower) surfaces of each member are separated by the third direction DR3. However, the direction indicated by the first to third direction axes DR1, DR2, and DR3 is a relative concept and can be converted to another direction. Hereinafter, the first to third directions refer to the same reference numerals as the directions indicated by the first to third direction axes DR1, DR2, and DR3, respectively. Although a flexible display device is shown in this embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto. The display device DD according to this embodiment may be a flat display device.

1A and 1B show a foldable display device as an example of the display device DD. However, the present invention may be a rollable flexible display device that is rolled up, and is not particularly limited. The display device (DD) according to the present invention can be used in large electronic devices such as televisions and monitors, as well as small and medium-sized electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, car navigation systems, game consoles, and smart watches.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the display surface IS of the display device DD may include a plurality of areas. The display device DD includes a display area DD-DA where an image IM is displayed and a non-display area DD-NDA adjacent to the display area DD-DA. The non-display area (DD-NDA) is an area where images are not displayed. Figure 1a shows a vase as an example of an image (IM). As an example, the display area (DD-DA) may have a rectangular shape. The non-display area (DD-NDA) may surround the display area (DD-DA). However, the shape is not limited to this, and the shape of the display area (DD-DA) and the shape of the non-display area (DD-NDA) may be designed relatively.

Although not shown, the display device DD may include a housing. The housing is disposed on the outside of the display device DD and can accommodate internal components.

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the display device DD may include a plurality of areas defined according to the operation type. The display device DD displays a bending area BA that is bent, a first non-bending area NBA1, and a second non-bending area NBA2 on the basis of the bending axis BX. It can be included.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the display device DD is bent inside so that the display surface IS of the first non-bending area NBA1 and the display surface IS of the second non-bending area NBA2 face each other. -bending) can be done. When the display surface (IS) of the first non-bending area (NBA1) and the display surface (IS) of the second non-bending area (NBA2) face each other, it is called in-folding mode. If it is not in-folding mode, it is called normal mode. It is called a mode.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the display device DD may include a plurality of bending areas BA. In addition, the bending area BA may be defined to correspond to the way the user manipulates the display device DD. For example, unlike FIG. 1B, the bending area BA may be defined parallel to the first direction axis DR1 or may be defined diagonally. The area of the bending area (BA) is not fixed and may be determined depending on the radius of curvature. In one embodiment of the present invention, the display device DD may be configured to repeat only the operation modes shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the display device DD in normal mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the display device DD shown in FIG. 2A in an in-folding mode. FIGS. 2A and 2B show an example of a display device DD in which a portion different from the display device DD shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B is folded. As such, in the display device DD according to the present invention, the number of bending areas BA and non-bending areas NBA is not limited, and the location of the bending area is not limited.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the display device DD according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows a cross section defined by the second direction DR2 and the third direction DR3.

As shown in Figure 3, The display device DD includes a protective film PM, a window WM, a display module DM, a first adhesive member AM1, and a second adhesive member AM2. The display module (DM) is placed between the protective film (PM) and the window (WM). The first adhesive member (AM1) couples the display module (DM) and the protective film (PM), and the second adhesive member (AM2) couples the display module (DM) and the window (WM). In one embodiment of the present invention, the first adhesive member (AM1) and the second adhesive member (AM2) may be omitted. Each of the protective film (PM) and window (WM) may be formed continuously through a coating process.

The protective film (PM) protects the display module (DM). The protective film PM provides a first outer surface OS-L exposed to the outside and an adhesive surface adhered to the first adhesive member AM1. The protective film (PM) prevents external moisture from penetrating into the display module (DM) and absorbs external shock.

The protective film (PM) may include a plastic film as a base layer. Protective films (PM) include polyethersulphone (PES), polyacrylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethyelenen napthalate (PEN), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). polyethyeleneterepthalate), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyallylate, polyimide (PI, polyimide), polycarbonate (PC, polycarbonate), poly(aryleneether sulfone), and It may include a plastic film containing any one selected from the group consisting of combinations thereof.

Materials constituting the protective film (PM) are not limited to plastic resins and may include organic/inorganic composite materials. The protective film (PM) may include a porous organic layer and an inorganic material filled in the pores of the organic layer. The protective film (PM) may further include a functional layer formed on the plastic film. The functional layer may include a resin layer. The functional layer may be formed by a coating method.

The window (WM) can protect the display module (DM) from external shock and provide an input surface to the user. The window WM provides a second outer surface OS-U exposed to the outside and an adhesive surface adhered to the second adhesive member AM2. The display surface IS shown in FIGS. 1A to 1B may be the second outer surface OS-U. The second outer surface (OS-U) may be a touch sensing surface for detecting whether the user touches it.

In the display device DD shown in FIGS. 1A to 2B, the window WM may not be disposed in the bending area BA. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and in another embodiment of the present invention, the window WM may also be disposed in the bending area BA.

The display module (DM) includes a display panel (DP) and a sensor unit (TS) integrally formed through a continuous process. The display panel DP may include a light emitting element. The display panel DP generates an image (IM, see FIG. 1A) corresponding to the input image data. The display panel DP provides a first display panel surface BS1-L and a second display panel surface BS1-U that face each other in the thickness direction DR3. The process for producing the display panel (DP) may include a low temperature polycrystaline silicon (LTPS) or low temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) process.

The sensor unit (TS) acquires coordinate information from external input. The sensor unit TS may be placed directly on the second display panel surface BS1-U. In this embodiment, the sensor unit (TS) can be manufactured through a continuous process with the display panel (DP).

Although not separately shown, the display module (DM) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an anti-reflection layer. The anti-reflection layer may include a color filter, a laminate structure of a conductive layer/dielectric layer/conductive layer, or an optical member. The anti-reflection layer can reduce external light reflectance by absorbing, destructively interfering with, or polarizing light incident from the outside.

Each of the first adhesive member (AM1) and the second adhesive member (AM2) is an optically clear adhesive film (OCA, Optically Clear Adhesive film), an optically clear adhesive resin (OCR, Optically Clear Resin), or a pressure sensitive adhesive film (PSA, Pressure Sensitive). Adhesive film). Each of the first adhesive member (AM1) and the second adhesive member (AM2) includes a photocuring adhesive material or a heat curing adhesive material, and the material is not particularly limited.

Although not separately shown, the display device DD may further include a frame structure supporting the functional layers to maintain the state shown in FIGS. 1A to 2B. The frame structure may include a joint structure or a hinge structure.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor unit TS may be a single-layer type. That is, the sensor unit TS may include a single conductive layer. Here, a single conductive layer means “one conductive layer separated by an insulating layer.” The stacked structure of the first metal layer/second metal layer/metal oxide layer corresponds to a single conductive layer, and the first metal layer/insulating layer/metal oxide layer corresponds to a double conductive layer.

A single conductive layer is patterned to form a plurality of touch sensors and a plurality of touch signal lines. That is, the touch sensors of the sensor unit TS may be arranged on the same layer. Sensors can be placed directly on the thin film encapsulation (TFE). Additionally, a portion of each of the touch signal lines may be disposed on the same layer as the sensors.

Touch signal lines and sensors may include indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), PEDOT, metal nanowire, and graphene. The touch signal lines and sensors may include a metal layer, such as molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum, or alloys thereof. The touch signal lines and sensors may contain the same material or may contain different materials.

However, the sensor unit TS is not limited to this and may be of a multi-layer type including a plurality of conductive layers.

Figure 4 is a plan view of the display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is an equivalent circuit diagram of a pixel (PX) according to an embodiment of the present invention. 6 and 7 are partial cross-sectional views of the display panel DP according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 4, the display panel DP includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA on a plane surface. The display area (DA) and non-display area (NDA) of the display panel (DP) correspond to the display area (DD-DA) and non-display area (DD-NDA) of the display device (DD), respectively. The display area (DA) and non-display area (NDA) of the display panel (DP) do not necessarily have to be the same as the display area (DD-DA) and non-display area (DD-NDA) of the display device (DD). It may change depending on the structure/design of the panel (DP).

The display panel DP includes a plurality of signal lines (SGL) and a plurality of pixels (PX). An area where a plurality of pixels (PX) are arranged is defined as a display area (DA). In this embodiment, the non-display area (NDA) may be defined along the border of the display area (DA).

The plurality of signal lines (SGL) include gate lines (GL), data lines (DL), power lines (PL), and control signal lines (CSL). The gate lines GL are each connected to a corresponding pixel PX among the plurality of pixels PX, and the data lines DL are respectively connected to the corresponding pixel PX among the plurality of pixels PX. do. The power line PL is connected to a plurality of pixels PX. A gate driving circuit (DCV) to which gate lines (GL) are connected may be disposed on one side of the non-display area (NDA). The control signal line (CSL) may provide control signals to the gate driving circuit (DCV).

Some of the gate lines GL, data lines DL, power line PL, and control signal lines CSL are placed on the same layer, and some are placed on different layers. When signal lines disposed on any one of the gate lines (GL), data lines (DL), power line (PL), and control signal line (CSL) are defined as first signal lines, the other one Signal lines arranged in the layer may be defined as second signal lines. Signal lines arranged on another layer may be defined as third signal lines.

Each of the gate lines (GL), data lines (DL), power line (PL), and control signal line (CSL) includes a signal wiring portion and display panel pads (PD-DP) connected to the ends of the signal wiring portion. can do. The signal wiring portion may be defined as a portion excluding the display panel pads (PD-DP) of each of the gate lines (GL), data lines (DL), power line (PL), and control signal line (CSL).

The display panel pads PD-DP may be formed in the same process as transistors for driving the pixels PX. For example, the display panel pads (PD-DP) may be formed in the same low temperature polycrystaline silicon (LTPS) process or low temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) process as the transistors for driving the pixels (PX).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the display panel pads (PD-DP) may include a control pad (CSL-P), a data pad (DL-P), and a power pad (PL-P). Although the gate pad portion is not shown, it overlaps with the gate driving circuit (DCV) and may be connected to the gate driving circuit (DCV). Although not separately indicated, a portion of the non-display area (NDA) where the control pad (CSL-P), data pad (DL-P), and power pad (PL-P) are aligned is defined as the pad area. As will be described later, the pads of the sensor unit TS may be disposed adjacent to the pads of the display panel DP described above.

FIG. 5 exemplarily shows a pixel (PX) connected to one gate line (GL), one data line (DL), and a power line (PL). The configuration of the pixel PX is not limited to this and may be modified.

The pixel (PX) is a display element and includes a light emitting element (OLED). The light-emitting device (OLED) may be a front-emitting diode or a bottom-emitting diode. Alternatively, the light emitting device (OLED) may be a double-sided light emitting diode. The pixel PX is a circuit unit for driving the light emitting device (OLED) and includes a first transistor (TFT1, or switching transistor), a second transistor (TFT2, or driving transistor), and a capacitor (CAP). A light emitting device (OLED) generates light by electrical signals provided from transistors (TFT1 and TFT2).

The first transistor TFT1 outputs a data signal applied to the data line DL in response to the scanning signal applied to the gate line GL. The capacitor CAP charges a voltage corresponding to the data signal received from the first transistor TFT1.

The second transistor (TFT2) is connected to the light emitting device (OLED). The second transistor (TFT2) controls the driving current flowing through the light emitting device (OLED) in response to the amount of charge stored in the capacitor (CAP). The light emitting device (OLED) emits light during the turn-on period of the second transistor (TFT2).

FIG. 6 shows a cross section of a portion corresponding to the first transistor (TFT1) and capacitor (CAP) of the equivalent circuit shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 shows a cross section of a portion corresponding to the second transistor (TFT2) and the light emitting device (OLED) of the equivalent circuit shown in FIG. 5.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first circuit layer CL1 is disposed on the base layer SUB. The semiconductor pattern AL1 (hereinafter referred to as first semiconductor pattern) of the first transistor TFT1 and the semiconductor pattern AL2 (hereinafter referred to as second semiconductor pattern) of the second transistor TFT2 are disposed on the base layer SUB. The first semiconductor pattern AL1 and the second semiconductor pattern AL2 may be selected from amorphous silicon, polysilicon, or metal oxide semiconductor, the same as or differently from each other.

The first circuit layer CL1 may include organic/inorganic layers BR, BL, 12, 14, and 16, a first transistor TFT1, a second transistor TFT2, and electrodes E1 and E2. You can. The organic/inorganic layers (BR, BL, 12, 14, 16) include a functional layer (BR, BF), a first insulating layer 12, a second insulating layer 14, and a third insulating layer 16. It can be included.

The functional layers (BR, BF) may be disposed on one side of the base layer (SUB). The functional layers (BR, BF) include at least one of a barrier layer (BR) or a buffer layer (BF). The first semiconductor pattern AL1 and the second semiconductor pattern AL2 may be disposed on the barrier layer BR or the buffer layer BF.

A first insulating layer 12 covering the first semiconductor pattern AL1 and the second semiconductor pattern AL2 is disposed on the base layer SUB. The first insulating layer 12 includes an organic layer and/or an inorganic layer. In particular, the first insulating layer 12 may include a plurality of inorganic thin films. The plurality of inorganic thin films may include a silicon nitride layer and a silicon oxide layer.

The control electrode (GE1: hereinafter referred to as first control electrode) of the first transistor (TFT1) and the control electrode (GE2 (hereinafter referred to as second control electrode)) of the second transistor (TFT2) are disposed on the first insulating layer 12. do. The first electrode E1 of the capacitor CAP is disposed on the first insulating layer 12. The first control electrode GE1, the second control electrode GE2, and the first electrode E1 may be manufactured according to the same photolithography process as the gate lines GL (see FIG. 5). In other words, the first electrode E1 may be made of the same material as the gate lines GL, have the same stacked structure, and be disposed on the same layer.

A second insulating layer 14 covering the first control electrode (GE1), the second control electrode (GE2), and the first electrode (E1) is disposed on the first insulating layer 12. The second insulating layer 14 includes an organic layer and/or an inorganic layer. In particular, the second insulating layer 14 may include a plurality of inorganic thin films. The plurality of inorganic thin films may include a silicon nitride layer and a silicon oxide layer.

Data lines DL (see FIG. 5 ) may be disposed on the second insulating layer 14 . The input electrode (SE1: hereinafter referred to as first input electrode) and the output electrode (DE1: hereinafter referred to as first output electrode) of the first transistor (TFT1) are disposed on the second insulating layer 14. The input electrode (SE2: hereinafter referred to as second input electrode) and the output electrode (DE2: hereinafter referred to as second output electrode) of the second transistor (TFT2) are disposed on the second insulating layer 14. The first input electrode SE1 is branched from a corresponding data line among the data lines DL. The power line PL (see FIG. 5) may be placed on the same layer as the data lines DL. The second input electrode SE2 may be branched from the power line PL.

The second electrode E2 of the capacitor CAP is disposed on the second insulating layer 14. The second electrode E2 may be manufactured according to the same photolithography process as the data lines DL and the power line PL, may be made of the same material, may have the same stacked structure, and may be disposed on the same layer. there is.

The first input electrode (SE1) and the first output electrode (DE1) have a first through hole (CH1) and a second through hole (CH2) penetrating the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14. Each is connected to the first semiconductor pattern AL1 through. The first output electrode DE1 may be electrically connected to the first electrode E1. For example, the first output electrode DE1 may be connected to the first electrode E1 through a through hole (not shown) penetrating the second insulating layer 14. The second input electrode (SE2) and the second output electrode (DE2) have third through holes (CH3) and fourth through holes (CH4) penetrating the first and second insulating layers (12) and (14). Each is connected to the second semiconductor pattern AL2 through. Meanwhile, in another embodiment of the present invention, the first transistor TFT1 and the second transistor TFT2 may be modified to have a bottom gate structure.

A third insulating layer 16 covers the first input electrode (SE1), the first output electrode (DE1), the second input electrode (SE2), and the second output electrode (DE2) on the second insulating layer (14). ) is placed. The third insulating layer 16 includes an organic layer and/or an inorganic layer. In particular, the third insulating layer 16 may include an organic material to provide a flat surface.

Any one of the first insulating layer 12, the second insulating layer 14, and the third insulating layer 16 may be omitted depending on the circuit structure of the pixel. Each of the second insulating layer 14 and the third insulating layer 16 may be defined as an interlayer insulating layer (interlayer). The interlayer insulating layer is disposed between the conductive pattern disposed below and the conductive pattern disposed above with respect to the interlayer insulating layer to insulate the conductive patterns.

A light emitting element layer (ELL) is disposed on the third insulating layer 16. The light emitting device layer (ELL) includes a pixel defining layer (PXL) and a light emitting device (OLED). An anode (AE) is disposed on the third insulating layer 16. The anode (AE) is connected to the second output electrode (DE2) through the fifth through hole (CH5) penetrating the third insulating layer (16). An opening (OP) is defined in the pixel definition layer (PXL). The opening OP of the pixel definition layer PXL exposes at least a portion of the anode AE.

The light emitting device layer (ELL) includes a light emitting area (PXA) and a non-light emitting area (NPXA) adjacent to the light emitting area (PXA). The non-emissive area (NPXA) may surround the luminous area (PXA). In this embodiment, the light emitting area (PXA) is defined to correspond to the anode (AE). However, the light-emitting area PXA is not limited to this, and it is sufficient if the light-emitting area PXA is defined as an area where light is generated. The light emitting area (PXA) may be defined to correspond to a partial area of the anode (AE) exposed by the opening (OP).

The hole control layer (HCL) may be commonly disposed in the emission area (PXA) and the non-emission area (NPXA). Although not separately shown, a common layer such as a hole control layer (HCL) may be formed in common across a plurality of pixels (PX, see FIG. 4).

The light emitting layer (EML) is disposed on the hole control layer (HCL). The light emitting layer (EML) may be disposed only in the area corresponding to the opening OP. That is, the light emitting layer (EML) may be formed separately in each of the plurality of pixels (PX).

The light emitting layer (EML) may include organic or inorganic materials.

An electronic control layer (ECL) is disposed on the light emitting layer (EML). A cathode (CE) is disposed on the electronic control layer (ECL). The cathode CE is commonly disposed in the plurality of pixels PX.

Although the patterned light emitting layer (EML) is shown as an example in this embodiment, the light emitting layer (EML) may be commonly disposed in a plurality of pixels (PX). At this time, the light emitting layer (EML) can generate white light. Additionally, the light emitting layer (EML) may have a multilayer structure.

In this embodiment, the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) directly covers the cathode (CE). In one embodiment of the present invention, a capping layer covering the cathode (CE) may be further disposed. At this time, the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) directly covers the capping layer. The thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) may include an organic layer containing an organic material and an inorganic layer containing an inorganic material.

Figure 8 is a plan view of the display module (DM) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display module (DM) includes a touch sensing area (TA) and a non-touch sensing area (NTA) on a plane.

Touch sensors may be disposed in the touch detection area (TA) to detect whether a touch is present. Touch signal lines (SL1, SL2) to electrically connect the touch sensor and the sensor unit pad (PD-TS) may be disposed in the non-touch detection area (NTA).

The sensor unit pads (PD-TS) are electrically connected to the pads (PD-PCB) of the printed circuit board (PCB). An integrated circuit (DIC) may be placed on a printed circuit board (PCB). An integrated circuit (DIC) can be formed using a Chip On Flexible Printed Circuit (COF) method. The integrated circuit (DIC) can control the sensor unit (TS).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated circuit (DIC) can control not only the sensor unit (TS) but also the display panel (DP).

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of AA of FIG. 8. Figures 10a and 10b are cross-sectional views taken along line II-II′ of Figure 9, respectively.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10A , the display area DA includes a plurality of light-emitting areas PXA and a non-emission area NPXA surrounding the plurality of light-emitting areas PXA. The touch sensor (SP) may have a mesh shape that overlaps the non-emissive area (NPXA).

The touch sensor SP includes a plurality of vertical parts SP-C extending in the first direction DR1 and a plurality of horizontal parts SP-L extending in the second direction DR2. A plurality of vertical parts (SP-C) and a plurality of horizontal parts (SP-L) may be defined by mesh lines. The line width of the mesh lines may be several microns.

The plurality of vertical parts (SP-C) and the plurality of horizontal parts (SP-L) are connected to each other to form a plurality of touch openings (TS-OP). Although the touch openings TS-OP are shown as having a one-to-one correspondence with the light emitting areas PXA, the present invention is not limited thereto. One touch opening (TS-OP) may correspond to two or more light emitting areas (PXA). 9 and 10A show the touch sensor (SP) exposed to the outside, but the display module (DM) may further include an insulating layer disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) and covering the touch sensor (SP). .

Referring to FIG. 10B, the touch sensor (SP-MR) may include a first touch electrode (MLT1), an insulating pattern (CNT), and a second touch electrode (MLT2). The insulating pattern (CNT) insulates the first touch electrode (MLT1) and the second touch electrode (MLT2).

The first touch electrode (MLT1) and the second touch electrode (MLT2) may each reflect incident light. Accordingly, the first touch electrode (MLT1) and the second touch electrode (MLT2) can provide a mirror function to the user.

Figure 11a is a plan view showing the touch sensors (SP) disposed in the touch sensing area (TA). FIG. 11B shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line II′ of FIG. 1B.

Referring to FIG. 11A, the sensor unit TS includes touch sensors SP and connection patterns CP disposed in the touch sensing area TA.

The touch sensors SP may be divided into first touch sensors SP1 and second touch sensors SP2. The first touch sensors SP1 extend in the first direction DR1 and are arranged in the second direction DR2. Each of the first touch sensors SP1 may have a mesh shape with a plurality of touch openings OP-TC defined.

The second touch sensors SP2 may be insulated from the first touch sensors SP1 by insulating patterns CNT. Insulating patterns (CNTs) may contain inorganic or organic materials. The inorganic material may include silicon oxide or silicon nitride. The organic material may include at least one of acrylic resin, methacrylic resin, polyisoprene, vinyl resin, epoxy resin, urethane resin, cellulose resin, and perylene resin.

Each of the second touch sensors SP2 may have a mesh shape with a plurality of touch openings OP-TC defined.

The connection patterns CP may be divided into first connection patterns CP1 and second connection patterns CP2. Each of the first connection patterns CP1 connects two adjacent first touch sensors SP1 among the first touch sensors SP1. Each of the second connection patterns CP2 connects two adjacent second touch sensors SP2 among the second touch sensors SP2.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the first connection pattern (CP1) or the second connection patterns (CP2) may have a bridge function.

The first touch sensors SP1 and the second touch sensors SP2 are electrostatically coupled.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the first touch sensors SP1 may transmit an electric field, and the second touch sensors SP2 may receive the electric field transmitted from the first touch sensors SP1.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the second touch sensors SP2 may transmit an electric field, and the first touch sensors SP1 may receive the electric field transmitted from the second touch sensors SP2.

In the present invention, the shape of the first touch sensors SP1 and the second touch sensors SP2 is only an example and is not limited thereto. For example, each of the first touch sensors SP1 and the second touch sensors SP2 may have a bar shape with a constant width.

With respect to the bending axis BX, the first touch sensors SP1 may be arranged symmetrically with the second touch sensors SP2.

Referring to FIG. 11B, in the in-folding mode in which the device is folded based on the bending axis BX, the first touch sensor SP1 overlaps the second touch sensor SP2. At this time, the first touch sensor SP1 and the second touch sensor SP2 that overlap each other are electrostatically coupled. When pressure is applied from the outside, the capacitance between the electrostatically coupled first touch sensor (SP1) and the second touch sensor (SP2) changes, and the display device (DD) detects this change in capacitance and applies pressure. It can be measured.

In this way, the display device DD can detect the user's touch in the normal mode and detect the pressure applied by the user in the in-folding mode. However, it is not limited to this, and in another embodiment of the present invention, the sensor unit TS may not detect the applied pressure.

Figure 12a is a plan view showing the touch sensors (SP) disposed in the touch sensing area (TA). FIG. 12B shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line II′ of FIG. 1B.

Referring to FIG. 12A, the sensor unit TS-1 includes touch sensors SP-1 and connection patterns CP disposed in the touch sensing area TA.

The touch sensors SP-1 may be divided into first touch sensors SP1-1 and second touch sensors SP2-1.

Unlike the touch sensors SP shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the touch sensors SP-1 shown in FIG. 12A are based on the same type of touch sensor SP-1 and the bending axis BX. is symmetrical. For example, one of the first touch sensors SP1-1 is disposed to correspond to the other one of the first touch sensors SP1-1 with respect to the bending axis BX. Additionally, one of the second touch sensors (SP2-1) is disposed to correspond to the other one of the second touch sensors (SP2-1) with respect to the bending axis (BX).

Referring to FIG. 12B, in the in-folding mode in which the device is folded based on the bending axis BX, the first touch sensor SP1-1 overlaps with the other first touch sensor SP1-1. At this time, the overlapping first touch sensors SP1-1 are electrostatically coupled to each other. When pressure is applied from the outside, the capacitance between the electrostatically coupled first touch sensors SP1 changes, and the display device DD can measure the pressure by detecting this change in capacitance.

In normal mode, the first touch sensors SP1-1 of the display device DD-1 selectively perform one of the functions of transmitting an electric field or receiving an electric field. However, in the in-folding mode, one of the two overlapping first touch sensors SP1-1 in the display device DD-1 transmits an electric field, and the other receives an electric field.

In the normal mode, the second touch sensors SP2-1 of the display device DD-1 selectively perform either electric field transmission or electric field reception. However, in the in-folding mode, one of the two second touch sensors SP2-1 that overlap in the display device DD-1 transmits an electric field, and the other receives an electric field.

In this way, the roles of the first touch sensors (SP1-1) and the second touch sensors (SP2-1) are changed according to the mode change between normal mode and in-folding mode, using an integrated circuit (DIC, see FIG. 8). It can be controlled by .

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of the display device DD1 in normal mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the display device DD1 shown in FIG. 13A in an out-folding mode.

The description of the normal mode of the display device DD1 shown in FIG. 13A is substantially the same as the description of the normal mode of the display device DD in FIG. 1A and is therefore omitted.

As shown in FIG. 13B, the display device DD1 may be outer-bended so that the display surface IS is exposed to the outside. Within this specification, when the back of the first non-bending area (NBA1) and the back of the second non-bending area (NBA2) come into contact with each other, it is referred to as out-folding mode, and if it is not out-folding mode, it is referred to as normal mode. .

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the display device DD1 in normal mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the display device DD1 shown in FIG. 14A in an out-folding mode. FIGS. 14A and 14B show an example of the display device DD1 in which a portion different from the display device DD1 shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B is folded. As such, in the display device DD1 according to the present invention, the number of bending areas BA and non-bending areas NBA is not limited, and the location of the bending area is not limited.

FIG. 15A shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 13A. FIG. 15b shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line IV-IV′ of FIG. 13b.

Referring to FIG. 15A, a force sensor (FSS) is disposed under the display module (DM). The force sensor (FSS) includes a first force-sensing electrode (FS1) and a second force-sensing electrode (FS2). The first force-sensing electrode FS1 and the second force-sensing electrode FS2 may be symmetrical about the bending axis BX.

Referring to FIG. 15B, in the out-folding mode, the first force-sensing electrode (FS1) overlaps the second force-sensing electrode (FS2). The first force-sensing electrode (FS1) and the second force-sensing electrode (FS2) that overlap each other are electrostatically coupled. When pressure is applied from the outside, the capacitance between the electrostatically coupled first force-sensing electrode FS1 and the second force-sensing electrode FS2 changes, and the display device DD1 detects this change in capacitance. Pressure can be measured by detection.

FIG. 16A shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 13A. FIG. 16b shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the present invention taken along line IV-IV′ of FIG. 13b. FIG. 16C shows strain gauges SG1 and SG2 of FIG. 16A.

Referring to FIG. 16A, a force sensor (FSS-1) is disposed under the display module (DM). The force sensor (FSS-1) includes strain gauges (SG1, SG2). The strain gauges SG1 and SG2 may be divided into a first strain gauge (SG1) and a second strain gauge (SG2). The first strain gauge SG1 may be disposed to overlap the first non-bending area NBA1, and the second strain gauge SG2 may be disposed to overlap the second non-bending area NBA2.

A strain gauge uses the pressure resistance effect, in which the resistance value changes when strain is applied to a metal or semiconductor resistor, and is used to measure pressure, torque, or stress.

Referring to FIG. 16C, the metal pattern of each of the strain gauges SG1 and SG2 may have a specific direction. The direction of the metal pattern of one of the strain gauges SG1 and SG2 may be perpendicular to the direction of the other adjacent metal pattern. In this way, by arranging the strain gauges SG1 and SG2 so that the metal pattern directions are alternate, sensitivity to detect pressure can be improved.

Figure 17 shows a display device DD2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a double-sided light-emitting display device that provides images (IM1, IM2) on the front and back of the display device (DD2). The display device DD2 provides the first image IM1 to the front. Figure 17 shows a vase as an example of the first image (IM1). The display device DD2 provides a second image IM2 on its rear side. Figure 17 shows a teddy bear as an example of the second image (IM2).

FIG. 18 illustrates a portion of a cross section of the display device DD2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display device DD2 includes a display panel DP-1, a sensor unit TS, a first force sensor FSS1, and a second force sensor FSS2. The display panel (DP-1) includes a transparent base layer (SUB-TP), an insulating layer (16-1), and a light emitting element layer (ELL-1).

The transparent base layer (SUB-TP) may transmit at least a portion of the incident light. For example, the transparent base layer (SUB-TP) may include glass.

The insulating layer 16-1 is disposed on the transparent base layer (SUB-TP). Descriptions of the function and materials of the insulating layer 16-1 are omitted as they are substantially the same as the description of the third insulating layer 16 in FIGS. 6 and 7.

The light emitting device layer (ELL-1) is disposed on the insulating layer (16-1). The light emitting device layer (ELL-1) includes a light emitting device (OLED-1). The light emitting device (OLED-1) can be divided into a front light emitting area (LA-F) and a bottom light emitting area (LA-B).

The light emitting device (OLED-1) includes a first reflective layer (RF1), a first anode (AE1), a second anode (AE2), a light emitting layer (EML), a cathode (CE), and a second reflective layer (RF2).

The first reflective layer RF1 is disposed on the insulating layer 16-1 and overlaps the front emission area LA-F. The first reflective layer RF1 may reflect incident light.

The first anode (AE1) is disposed on the first reflective layer and overlaps the top emission area (LA-F). The second anode AE2 is disposed on the insulating layer 16-1 and overlaps the bottom emission area LA-B.

The light emitting layer (EML) is disposed on the first anode (AE1) and the second anode (AE2), and overlaps the front light emitting area (LA-F) and the bottom light emitting area (LA-B).

The cathode (CE) is disposed on the emission layer (EML) and overlaps the front emission area (LA-F) and the bottom emission area (LA-B).

The second reflective layer RF2 is disposed on the cathode CE and overlaps the bottom emission area LA-B. The second reflective layer RF2 may reflect incident light.

The light generated in the light emitting layer (EML) is reflected by the first reflective layer (RF1) and is emitted to the front. The light generated in the light emitting layer (EML) is reflected by the second reflective layer (RF2) and is emitted to the rear surface. Accordingly, the light emitting device (OLED-1) can emit light to the front and back.

It is disposed on the first force sensor (FSS1) and overlaps the bottom emitting area (LA-B). The first force sensor (FSS1) can detect the pressure applied to the display device (DD2). The first force sensor (FSS1) may include a strain gauge.

The sensor unit TS may be disposed on the first force sensor FSS1.

The second force sensor (FSS2) is disposed under the display panel (DP-1). When the display device DD2 is folded, the second force sensor FSS2 can detect the pressure applied to the display device DD2.

The second force sensor (FSS2) includes a first force-sensing electrode (FS1) and a second force-sensing electrode (FS2). The description of the first force-sensing electrode FS1 and the second force-sensing electrode FS2 is omitted as it is substantially the same as that in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 19 illustrates a portion of a cross section of the display device DD2-1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The display device DD2-1 includes a display panel DP-2, a sensor unit TS, a first force sensor FSS1, and a second force sensor FSS2. The display panel DP-2 includes a transparent base layer (SUB-TP), an insulating layer 16-1, a light emitting element layer (ELL-1), and a planarization layer (FLL1).

The planarization layer (FLL1) covers the light emitting device layer (ELL-1) and provides a flat surface. The planarization layer (FLL) may include an organic material. In one embodiment of the present invention, the planarization layer (FLL) may serve as an encapsulant that seals the light emitting device layer (ELL-1).

The first force sensor (FSS1) may be disposed on the planarization layer (FLL1). The first force sensor (FSS1) may be covered by another planarization layer (FFL2).

In addition, descriptions of other components are omitted as they are substantially the same as those described in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 illustrates a portion of a cross section of the display device DD2-2 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The display device DD2-2 includes a display panel DP-1, a reflective member (MR), a first force sensor (FSS1), and a second force sensor (FSS2).

The reflective member (MR) is disposed on the first force sensor (FSS1) and overlaps the front emitting area (LA-F) and the bottom emitting area (LA-B). The reflective member (MR) can reflect light and provide a mirror function to the user.

The reflective member (MR) is electrostatically coupled to the first force sensor (FSS1) and can detect the user's touch. For example, the reflective member (MR) and the first force sensor (FSS1) can detect a touch using a self-cap method.

Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of the display device DD2-3 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display device DD2-3 includes a first display module DM1, a second display module DM2, and a force sensor FSS3. The description of the first display module (DM1) and the second display module (DM2) is substantially the same as the description of the display module (DM) described in FIGS. 3 to 7 and is therefore omitted.

The force sensor (FSS3) is disposed between the first display module (DM1) and the second display module (DM2). The force sensor (FSS3) can detect the pressure applied to the display device (DD2-3).

Figures 22, 23, 24, 25, and 26 show cross-sections of force sensors (FSS3, FFS3-1, FFS3-2, FFS3-3, and FFS3-4), respectively.

Referring to FIG. 22, the force sensor (FSS3) includes an insulating layer (LPI), a buffer layer (BF-FSS), a pressure cushion (PC), a first force-sensing electrode (FS1), and a second force-sensing electrode (FS2). ) includes. The force sensor (FSS3) consists of an insulating layer (LPI), a second force-sensing electrode (FS2), a buffer layer (BF-FSS), an insulating layer (LPI), a pressure cushion (PC), an insulating layer (LPI), and a buffer layer (BF). -FSS), the first force-sensing electrode (FS1), and the insulating layer (LPI) may be formed by stacking them in that order. However, the stacking order is not limited to this, and in other embodiments, an insulating layer (LPI), a buffer layer (BF-FSS), a pressure cushion (PC), a first force-sensing electrode (FS1), and a second force-sensing Electrodes FS2 may be stacked in different orders.

The first force-sensing electrode (FS1) and the second force-sensing electrode (FS2) are electrostatically coupled. In one embodiment of the present invention, the first force-sensing electrode (FS1) may transmit an electric field, and the second force-sensing electrode (FS2) may receive the electric field.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the first force-sensing electrode FS1 and the second force-sensing electrode FS2 of the force sensor FSS3-3 may change roles depending on the driving mode. For example, in the first driving mode, the first force-sensing electrode FS1 may transmit an electric field, and the second force-sensing electrode FS2 may receive the electric field. In the second driving mode, the second force-sensing electrode FS2 may transmit an electric field, and the first force-sensing electrode FS1 may receive the electric field.

Referring to FIG. 23, the first force-sensing electrode (FS1) of the force sensor (FSS3-1) is electrically connected to the sensor unit (TS) of the first display module (DM1) through the sixth through hole (CH6). You can. The second force-sensing electrode FS2 of the force sensor FSS3-1 may be electrically connected to the sensor unit TS of the second display module DM2 through the seventh through-hole CH7. At this time, the force sensor (FSS3-1) can be driven and controlled by receiving an electrical signal from the sensor unit (TS).

Referring to FIG. 24, the first force-sensing electrode FS1 and the second force-sensing electrode FS2 of the force sensor FSS3-2 may be alternately arranged on the same layer.

Referring to FIG. 25, the force sensor (FSS3-3) includes an insulating layer (LPI), a buffer layer (BF-FSS), an insulating layer (LPI), a second force-sensing electrode (FS2), a pressure cushion (PC), and a second force sensor (FSS2). 1 The force-sensing electrode (FS1), the insulating layer (LPI), the buffer layer (BF-FSS), and the insulating layer (LPI) may be sequentially stacked.

Referring to FIG. 26, the force sensor (FSS3-4) may further include a noise shielding layer (NSL). The noise shielding layer (NSL) may be disposed between the insulating layer (LPI) and the buffer layer (BF-FSS). However, the location where the noise shielding layer (NSL) is placed is not limited to this.

The noise shielding layer (NSL) blocks noise generated from the transistors of the display panel (DP1, DP2), allowing the force sensor (FSS3-4) to detect pressure.

Figures 27, 28, and 29 show sensor units (TS2, TS3, and TS4) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 27, unlike the sensor unit TS described above, the sensor unit TS2 according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a touch sensor SP-TS2 having a stripe pattern shape.

Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, the sensor units TS3 and TS4, unlike the sensor units TS described above, may have a shape including a plurality of square patterns. there is.

Although the description has been made with reference to examples, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the following patent claims. There will be. In addition, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of the present invention, and all technical ideas within the scope of the following patent claims and equivalents should be construed as being included in the scope of the present invention. .

DD: Display device DM: Display module
DP: Display panel TS: Sensor unit
SP: Touch sensor FSS: Force sensor
SG1, SG2: Strain gauges

Claims (20)

In a display device including a flexible display module and providing a display surface on which an image is displayed, the flexible display module includes:
A display panel including a light emitting element; and
A sensor unit disposed on the display panel and including a plurality of touch sensors,
In an in-folding mode in which the flexible display module is folded and a portion of the display surface faces another portion of the display surface, the sensor unit determines the capacitance between touch sensors that overlap on a plane among the plurality of touch sensors. A display device that detects a change and detects the first pressure applied to the flexible display module. According to claim 1,
The sensor unit includes a plurality of first touch sensors that transmit an electric field and a plurality of second touch sensors that receive the electric field,
In the in-folding mode, at least one of the plurality of first touch sensors overlaps with at least one of the plurality of second touch sensors. According to clause 2,
In the in-folding mode, a display for detecting the first pressure by detecting a change in capacitance between the at least one of the plurality of first touch sensors and the at least one of the plurality of second touch sensors Device. According to claim 1,
The sensor unit includes a plurality of first touch sensors and a plurality of second touch sensors electrostatically coupled to the plurality of first touch sensors,
In the in-folding mode, at least one of the plurality of first touch sensors overlaps with at least another one of the plurality of first touch sensors. According to clause 4,
In the in-folding mode, the first pressure is detected by detecting a change in capacitance between the at least one of the plurality of first touch sensors and the at least another one of the plurality of second touch sensors. Display device. According to claim 1,
Further comprising a force sensor disposed under the display panel,
When the flexible display module is in an out-folding mode, the force sensor detects a second pressure applied to the flexible display module. According to clause 6,
In the out-folding mode, the force sensor detects the second pressure by detecting a change in capacitance. According to clause 6,
The force sensor is a display device including a strain gauge. According to claim 1,
A display device wherein the light emitting element is divided into a front light emitting area and a bottom light emitting area, and the display panel is a double sided light emitting display panel. According to clause 9,
The light emitting device is,
a first reflective layer disposed on the base surface and overlapping the front emission area;
a first anode disposed on the first reflective layer and overlapping the front emission area;
a second anode disposed on the base surface and overlapping the bottom emitting area;
a light emitting layer disposed on the first anode and the second anode and overlapping the front light emitting area and the bottom light emitting area;
a cathode disposed on the light emitting layer and overlapping the front light emitting area and the bottom light emitting area; and
A display device including a second reflective layer disposed on the cathode and overlapping the bottom emission area. According to claim 10,
The display device further includes a first force sensor disposed between the second reflective layer and the sensor unit and detecting the first pressure. According to claim 11,
Further comprising a second force sensor disposed under the display panel,
When the flexible display module is in an out-folding mode, the second force sensor detects a second pressure applied to the flexible display module. According to claim 10,
a first force sensor disposed on the second reflective layer to sense the first pressure; and
The display device further includes a reflective member disposed on the first force sensor and overlapping the front emitting area and the bottom emitting area. In a display device including a flexible display module and a force sensor and providing a display surface on which an image is displayed, the flexible display module includes,
A first display panel including a light emitting element; and
It includes a sensor unit disposed on the first display panel,
The force sensor disposed under the first display panel includes a first force-sensing electrode and a second force-sensing electrode electrostatically coupled to the first force-sensing electrode,
When the flexible display module is in the out-folding mode, the first force-sensing electrode and the second force-sensing electrode overlap in a plane, and the force sensor is connected to the first force-sensing electrode and the second force-sensing electrode. A display device that detects pressure applied to the flexible display module by detecting changes in capacitance between sensing electrodes. According to claim 14,
In the out-folding mode, the force sensor detects the pressure by detecting a change in capacitance. According to claim 14,
The force sensor is a display device including a strain gauge. According to claim 14,
A display device further comprising a second display panel disposed under the force sensor and including a light emitting element. According to claim 17,
The force sensor further includes a pressure cushion disposed between the first force-sensing electrode and the second force-sensing electrode. According to clause 18,
A display device wherein at least one of the first force-sensing electrode and the second force-sensing electrode is electrically connected to the sensor unit. In a display device including a flexible display module and providing a display surface on which an image is displayed, the flexible display module includes:
A display panel including a light emitting element; and
It includes a sensor unit disposed on the display panel,
In an in-folding mode in which the flexible display module is folded and a portion of the display surface faces another portion of the display surface, the portion of the display surface and the other portion of the display surface are electrostatically coupled, and the sensor unit is a display device that detects pressure applied to the flexible display module by detecting changes in capacitance between the electrostatically coupled display surfaces.

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